Green Bay Packers legend Brett Favre knows a thing or two about making a high-profile transition from Wisconsin to New York. After all, he did it 15 years ago when he was traded to the New York Jets. Now, as his former teammate and Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers takes on the same challenge, Favre has expressed his confidence in Rodgers’ success with the Jets.
Favre sent a text message to ESPN’s Ed Werder stating that Rodgers is a smart and instinctive person both on and off the field, and he will handle the transition to the Jets as well as anyone. Favre also stated that Rodgers is the best at making everyone around him better and that he would not bet against him.
“Aaron will do great!!!! He will handle the transition as well as anyone. [He’s a] very smart and instinctive person, on and off the field. In other words, you’re not going to catch him by surprise very often.”
“And I think [he’s] the best at making everyone around him better. I would rather not bet at all than bet against him.”
How is Aaron Rodgers situation similar to that of Favre?
Rodgers was introduced to the media at a news conference on Wednesday after being acquired in a blockbuster trade. He arrived at the Jets’ facility mid-morning, where he met with coaches and spent time with owner Woody Johnson. This situation is similar to when Favre was traded to the Jets in 2008, and he was elevated to the starting job in Green Bay when Favre was dealt.
Despite being unfamiliar with the team, personnel, and offense, Favre had a good start with the Jets, leading them to an 8-3 record. However, he suffered a torn biceps tendon in his throwing arm, and his performance declined, resulting in the Jets losing four of their last five games and missing the playoffs. Favre retired after the season but ultimately signed with the Minnesota Vikings.
The Favre and Rodgers situations are alike. Favre was 38 years old when he was traded, and had three league MVPs and one Super Bowl title in Green Bay. Rodgers, who is 39, has four MVPs and one title. Favre was 35 when the Packers drafted his replacement, Rodgers, and Rodgers was 36 when Jordan Love, his successor, was drafted.
As Aaron Rodgers begins a new chapter in his career with the New York Jets, he can rest assured that he has the support of one of the greatest quarterbacks to ever play the game. With Brett Favre’s confidence and endorsement, Rodgers is poised to make a smooth transition and have success in the Big Apple. Only time will tell what the future holds for Rodgers and the Jets, but with the backing of a Packers legend like Favre, things are already off to a promising start.
